Interview

Saliba - I'm very proud to follow Vieira and Henry

Having watched Patrick Vieira dominate our midfield in the past, William Saliba says it is a great honour to inherit the famous No 4.

Our French centre back grew up admiring his compatriot - but says it was another legendary Gunner that he had on the back of his shirt as a kid.

"I had an Arsenal jersey when I was little with Thierry Henry [on the back], so I liked the club since then," Saliba said. "Now I am very proud to have the Arsenal jersey.

"I don't know why [I got it]! I went in the shop, and I only wanted Arsenal. I liked Vieira and Thierry Henry because I was little and I only knew the French players and they were very good.

"I am very, very proud to have the number four, so I have to be ready to carry number four."

It is not only Vieira who has worn the No 4, but fellow captains such as Per Mertesacker and Cesc Fabregas - so could Saliba take the armband eventually too?

"I hope, I hope... I hope one day, maybe!" he said. "I am very happy to be here, with good team-mates and with a good badge like Arsenal, so I am very excited and I think it is good to be here."